5 Reasons to Love the 2020 Hyundai Elantra Configurations (and a Few Laughs)

The 2020 Hyundai Elantra has long been a staple of the compact car segment. With a sleek design, a suite of advanced features, and multiple trim options, it is no wonder why so many drivers have been drawn to this practical yet stylish sedan. But with so many configurations to choose from, how do you decide which one is right for you? In this guide, we'll dive deep into the 2020 Hyundai Elantra configurations—unpacking the features, the pros, and even a few quirks. Let’s also have a little fun pointing out the occasional head-scratching choices along the way.

Why the 2020 Elantra is Still a Top Choice

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of each trim level, let's take a moment to understand why the 2020 Hyundai Elantra is still a strong contender in the compact car market.

• Affordable Pricing: Hyundai has a knack for delivering quality at a great price. The 2020 Elantra starts at a budget-friendly MSRP of $19,300.
• Great Fuel Efficiency: With up to 41 MPG on the highway, you’ll save on gas (though maybe not enough to justify that extra Starbucks trip every morning).
• Stylish Design: The Elantra’s exterior design strikes a balance between sporty and professional—perfect for those who want to look sharp without breaking the bank.

Now, let's dive into the specific configurations of the 2020 Elantra to see what each offers (and where they fall a little short).

SE: The Base Model With a Few Surprises

Starting with the 2020 Hyundai Elantra SE, this is the most affordable option in the lineup. But don’t let that fool you into thinking it's bare bones.

Key Features of the SE:

• MSRP: $19,300
• Engine: 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine with 147 horsepower
• Fuel Efficiency: 31 MPG city/41 MPG highway
• Infotainment System: 5-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, USB port
• Safety Features: Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane-Keeping Assist

While the SE offers the basics, you might be asking: Is this enough? Well, if you’re like me and love a good bargain, the SE covers all the essentials. But here's the kicker—it doesn’t have Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. Yes, you read that right. In 2020, Hyundai thought you could live without these conveniences. It’s like selling a house without a front door. Sure, you could probably get by, but why would you want to?

What You’ll Love:

• Affordability: For under $20k, you’re getting a car with modern safety features and good fuel efficiency.
• Smooth Ride: The SE isn’t the sportiest, but it's a comfortable daily driver.

What’s Missing (with a Laugh):

• No Apple CarPlay or Android Auto: Hyundai, what did we do to deserve this?
• 5-inch touchscreen: Remember when TVs were that size? Yeah, me neither.

SEL: The Sweet Spot

Now we’re talking. The 2020 Hyundai Elantra SEL is one step up from the SE and brings with it some of the features you’d expect in a modern car. Finally, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto make an appearance. Thank you, Hyundai, for catching up to 2020.

Key Features of the SEL:

• MSRP: $20,300
• Engine: 2.0-liter 4-cylinder with 147 horsepower
• Fuel Efficiency: 30 MPG city/40 MPG highway
• Infotainment System: 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Safety Features: Blind-Spot Collision Warning, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Warning

If the SE is like a plain cheese pizza, the SEL adds a few toppings. It’s still affordable but gives you a lot more flavor.

What You’ll Love:

• Technology: Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard. No need to fumble with Bluetooth every time you get in the car.
• Safety Upgrades: Blind-Spot Warning is a great feature for those who like to zone out on long drives (I’m not saying that’s me, but...).

What’s Missing (with a Laugh):

• Still no Leather Seats: Don’t get too comfortable—you’re still sitting on fabric.
• 147 Horsepower: Not exactly “zoom-zoom,” but it gets you from point A to point B.

Value Edition: For Those Who Like a Little Luxury

Here’s where things start to get a bit more exciting. The 2020 Elantra Value Edition is like the SEL but with a few luxurious touches.

Key Features of the Value Edition:

• MSRP: $21,500
• Engine: 2.0-liter 4-cylinder with 147 horsepower
• Fuel Efficiency: 30 MPG city/40 MPG highway
• Luxury Features: Power sunroof, proximity key with push-button start, heated front seats
• Tech Features: Same 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto

For just a bit more than the SEL, you’re getting some nice extras like heated seats (because who doesn’t love warm buns in winter?) and a sunroof.

What You’ll Love:

• Power Sunroof: Open up the roof and let the sunshine in. Or the rain. Your call.
• Heated Front Seats: Perfect for those cold mornings when your coffee hasn’t kicked in yet.
• Proximity Key with Push Button Start: Because keys are so last decade.

What’s Missing (with a Laugh):

• Still No Turbocharged Engine: You’ve got luxury, but you’re not winning any drag races.
• Fabric Seats: Heated, yes. Fancy, not quite.

Eco: For the Fuel-Saving Fanatic

If you’re the type to feel guilty every time you hit the gas pedal, the 2020 Hyundai Elantra Eco might be for you. This trim level focuses on fuel efficiency, powered by a 1.4-liter turbocharged engine. It also swaps out the traditional automatic transmission for a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic.

Key Features of the Eco:

• MSRP: $21,800
• Engine: 1.4-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder with 128 horsepower
• Fuel Efficiency: 33 MPG city/41 MPG highway
• Transmission: 7-speed dual-clutch automatic
• Tech Features: Same 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto

The Eco is for those who prioritize fuel savings over horsepower. Sure, it’s not the fastest Elantra on the block, but when you’re cruising past gas stations, you won’t care.

What You’ll Love:

• Fuel Efficiency: 41 MPG on the highway means you can go longer between fill-ups.
• Turbocharged Engine: It might not be a race car, but the turbo does give it a bit more pep.
• Dual-Clutch Transmission: If you’re a fan of smooth shifts, this one’s for you.

What’s Missing (with a Laugh):

• 128 Horsepower: Blink, and you might miss your 0-60 time.
• Same Old Interior: No fancy upgrades here, just your standard seats and tech.

Limited: Almost Luxury

The 2020 Hyundai Elantra Limited takes everything from the previous trims and adds a bit of flair. This is the top of the line for the non-performance Elantras, and it shows.

Key Features of the Limited:

• MSRP: $23,800
• Engine: 2.0-liter 4-cylinder with 147 horsepower
• Fuel Efficiency: 30 MPG city/40 MPG highway
• Interior: Leather-trimmed seating, power driver seat with lumbar support
• Tech Features: 8-inch touchscreen with navigation, wireless device charging

Finally, we’ve got leather seats! And wireless charging! The Limited is designed for those who want a more luxurious feel without jumping into the performance-oriented N-Line.

What You’ll Love:

• Leather Seats: Soft, comfortable, and easy to clean when you spill your drive-thru lunch.
• 8-Inch Touchscreen: Bigger screen, better navigation, fewer missed exits.
• Wireless Charging: Toss your phone on the pad and forget about the tangle of charging cables.

What’s Missing (with a Laugh):

• No More Power: You’d think for almost $24k you’d get more than 147 horses, but here we are.
• No Ventilated Seats: Sorry, but your summer commute is still going to be sweaty.

N-Line: For Those Who Want to Have Fun

The 2020 Hyundai Elantra N-Line is where things get exciting. This is the performance-oriented version of the Elantra, and it’s got the engine to back it up.

Key Features of the N-Line:

• MSRP: $24,100
• Engine: 1.6-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder with 201 horsepower
• Fuel Efficiency: 25 MPG city/34 MPG highway
• Transmission: 6-speed manual or 7-speed dual-clutch automatic
• Performance Features: Sport-tuned suspension, 18-inch alloy wheels

The N-Line is the sporty Elantra you’ve been waiting for. It’s got the turbocharged engine, the manual transmission option, and a suspension designed for fun. If you want a car that’s practical